• by Ray Schultz , February 10, 2021

The New York Timeshas appointed Rebecca Blumenstein to the newly created title of deputy editor, publisher’s office, the newspaper reported Tuesday.  

Previously, Blumenstein has served as deputy managing editor. 

“Rebecca will step away from the news cycle to become my day-to-day partner in supporting our journalism operations at a time when they are growing rapidly in size and ambition,” Publisher A.C. Sulzberger wrote in a memo to staff.  

Reporting to Sulzberger, Blumenstein will concentrate on newsroom diversity, the need to maintain an independent voice in today’s hyper-partisan landscape and the eventual return to the office after the pandemic.  

Blumenstein will also become a more public representative of of The New York Times.

As deputy managing editor, Blumenstein was responsible for the publication's website, including live briefings on breaking news.  

Prior to joining the paper in 2017, Blumenstein served as deputy editor-in-chief of The Wall Street Journal, and as China bureau chief, international editor, Page One editor and website managing editor. 

“I will really miss the newsroom, but I can see areas where I could help The Times at this important moment.” says Blumenstein. “The news business is facing so many challenges,” she added. “We have to do whatever we can to see around the corner of what’s coming and make sure The Times is the best place for our people and our journalists.” 

In other recent masthead changes, the paper promoted Clifford J. Levy from metro editor to deputy managing editor and named Kathleen Kingsbury as opinion editor. In addition, late last year, Carolyn Ryan was promoted from associate managing editor to deputy managing editor, and national editor Marc Lacey became assistant managing editor.